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FIELD EVALUATION OF MAINLINE QUALITY TRACK, USING A TRACK STRENGTH TEST VEHICLE

This report presents the results of field evaluation tests of a prototype Track Strength Test Vehicle, the DECAROTOR, on mainline quality track. The objectives of these tests were to: (a) investigate the ability of the Decarotor to evaluate the strength of mainline quality track, (b) determine if the track strength testing concept could detect differences in mainline track "strength", normally permitted by railroads, and (c) evaluate the ability of stationary load-deflection tests to determine tie or fastener conditions. The results of these tests showed that continuous track strength measurements were feasible, and could differentiate between the different levels of track strength found in both mainline and yard quality track. In addition, the system could identify weaknesses in the track, such as a cluster of ties in "poor" condition. These testing activities could be performed non-destructively, by means of a moving inspection vehicle, so that long stretches of track could be evaluated. Further testing, however, is necessary in order to demonstrate the practical value of this testing technique.